In marking the observance today, June 14, of Flag Day I join with my fellow Americans to commemorate the anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting our nation’s flag back in 1777. I put up the flag this morning outside the house here under sunny skies, grateful for another day of freedom living in America.

The events of this morning with the shooting in Northern Virginia as well as the workplace shooting this afternoon at a UPS site in San Francisco serve as stark reminders of the way that freedom can be used for evil in an open society.

I saw other acts of kindness today that also demonstrate that freedom can be used to achieve so many positive things, so much good in our world.

In addition, I am reminded always when I look at our American flag, of the cost of freedom. I think of all those who have served our country and have died defending that flag, both at home and abroad. I will forever be grateful for their service and their sacrifice.

The events of today can serve to make some people lose hope. I will remind them that good always triumphs over evil, light always conquers the dark, and our American values and ideals will endure. Freedom will outlast tyranny.

May God bless you all and May God Bless the United States of America.